Exploring luxury cars similar to the BMW X2 – BMW, the renowned automaker, has a model for nearly every number, and one of their intriguing creations is the BMW X2.
As the name suggests, the X2 slots neatly between the X1 and X3 models in BMW’s lineup. BMW classifies the X2 as a “Sports Activity Coupé,” but in essence, it shares several similarities with larger SUVs, particularly the BMW X6 and BMW X4.
Built upon the foundation of the BMW X1 competitors, the X2 brings a sportier and more appealing aesthetic to the table.
What sets the X2 apart is its direct competition, as it has no shortage of rivals in the compact premium SUV market, with contenders from Audi, Mercedes, and MINI vying for your attention.
So what can you expect from the X2? The BMW X2, priced at a reasonable $36,600, offers an enticing entry point into the world of luxury compact SUVs.
For an additional $2,000, you can equip your X2 with all-wheel drive, enhancing its versatility and handling.
Under the hood, all X2 models boast a four-cylinder turbocharged engine that delivers spirited performance.
Depending on your preference, you can opt for the 228-horsepower variant or the more potent 302-horsepower engine.
The latter is particularly impressive, propelling this SUV from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.6 seconds. Want to know what cars are similar to the X2?
My personal favorites are the Range Rover Evoque, Audi Q3, and Ford Escape. Let’s dive deeper into cars that are similar to the BMW X2.
15 Best Cars Similar to BMW X2: Exploring Alternatives and Competitors
Are you looking for cars similar to the BMW X2, or maybe you’re just curious about its alternatives and competitors? The BMW X2 is known for its sleek design, premium features, and sporty performance.
However, it’s always a good idea to explore your options before making a final decision. In this article, we have compiled the 15 best alternatives and competitors to the BMW X2.
Whether you’re a fan of the sleek design, powerful performance, or cutting-edge technology of the BMW X2, we’ll help you explore other cars that might pique your interest.
Read also: Cars Similar to BMW X5
1. Acura RDX: Sporty Performance at $38,295
The Acura RDX presents a compelling alternative to the BMW X2, especially if you’re looking for sporty performance in a midsize SUV.
Priced at around $38,295, the RDX offers an excellent balance of power and agility. Under the hood, you’ll find a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that packs a punch with 272 horsepower.
This powerplant makes the RDX one of the quickest vehicles in its class, ensuring you’ll enjoy spirited drives.
Enhancing the RDX’s performance further is a 10-speed transmission and all-wheel drive system.
The transmission facilitates smooth gear changes, while the all-wheel drive improves maneuverability, especially in challenging road conditions.
The Acura RDX is a solid choice for those seeking a sporty and reasonably priced alternative to the BMW X2.
2. Alfa Romeo Stelvio: European Flair and Performance
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio may belong to a slightly higher class than the BMW X2, but its starting price of around $43,000 brings it close enough to be considered a worthy competitor.
What sets the Stelvio apart is its exceptional style, both inside and out, along with its strong focus on performance.
Under the hood, you’ll discover a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 280 horsepower and 306 lb-ft of torque.
This power results in highly responsive acceleration, and the 8-speed automatic transmission complements the engine’s capabilities.
The Stelvio exudes the essence of a European sports coupe, delivering a thrilling driving experience. Its interior also exudes a sense of luxury reminiscent of Italian super-luxury marques.
3. Audi Q3: Timeless Elegance with Tech Upgrades
Starting at $34,900, the Audi Q3 offers a timeless and elegant design that has stood the test of time.
While its styling hasn’t undergone significant changes over the years, it has received notable tech upgrades, setting it apart in its class.
The inclusion of Audi’s Virtual Cockpit is a standout feature, providing an advanced digital instrument cluster that enhances the driving experience.
The Q3 boasts a range of powerful and efficient engines, catering to various preferences.
Additionally, you now have the option to choose the 45 TFSI e hybrid variant, adding a touch of luxury and sustainability to your driving experience.
The Audi Q3’s commanding presence on the road is underscored by its bold Audi grille.
In terms of off-road capability, the Q3 may not excel like some rugged SUVs, but it’s highly unlikely that most owners will venture off-road with this vehicle.
When compared to the BMW X2, the Audi Q3 competitors offer a slightly different driving experience, leaning more towards comfort and elegance.
4. Cupra Formentor: The Jack of All Trades
Hailing from a brand with a strong European presence, the Cupra Formentor offers a compelling alternative to the BMW X2.
This versatile vehicle has garnered popularity as the best-selling vehicle in Australia, thanks to its unique blend of qualities.
It straddles the line between a sporty hatchback and a midsize SUV, combining the best of both worlds.
Priced at around $50,690 for the standard model, the Cupra Formentor offers sporty styling and spaciousness, making it a formidable rival to the X2.
The Formentor boasts an impressive range of engine options, catering to various preferences:
- Petrol Engines: Choose from 1.5 L, 2.0 L, and 2.5 L variants, delivering power and efficiency.
- Petrol Plug-In Hybrid: Equipped with a 13 kWh battery, offering sustainability alongside performance.
- Diesel Engine: Opt for the 2.0 L TDI I4, providing another powertrain option.
The engine options are complemented by a choice of transmissions, including a 6-speed manual, 6-speed DSG, or 7-speed DSG.
With powertrains capable of delivering up to 245 horsepower, the Cupra Formentor truly excels in the performance department.
5. Ford Escape: Ford’s Impressive Midsize SUV
For Ford enthusiasts seeking an alternative to the BMW X2, the Ford Escape is a compelling choice. Priced starting at $25,555, the Escape offers affordability without compromising on features and performance.
Available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, it also offers a plug-in hybrid variant for eco-conscious drivers.
The Escape’s 2.0 turbo four-cylinder engine delivers an impressive 250 horsepower and 250 lbs.-ft. of torque, outperforming the X2 in power.
In terms of fuel economy, the Escape offers competitive figures, with variants ranging from 23 to 28 city MPG and 32 highway MPG.
Safety features are a strong suit for the Escape, with a “limp home system” that keeps you moving even if coolant is lost, a feature absent in the X2.
Towing capacity is another area where the Escape shines, with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds, while the 1.5L EcoBoost offers a 2,000-pound towing capacity.
If you’re looking for power, safety, and towing capability, the Ford Escape is a worthy rival.
Related: Nissan Rogue vs Ford Escape
6. Holden Equinox: The Newcomer with Surprising Value
The 2018 Holden Equinox may not be as well-known as some of its competitors, including the BMW X1, but it offers remarkable value, starting at an affordable $19,600. This mid-sized SUV offers seating for five and stands out for its spacious interior.
The Equinox offers five different versions to choose from, ranging from the base model LS to the well-equipped LTZ and the flagship LTZ-V.
Under the hood, you’ll find a diesel engine delivering 100 hp and a petrol engine packing an impressive 252 hp.
With 188kW and 353Nm, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and four-wheel drive, the Equinox offers a dynamic driving experience.
Towing capacity is also impressive, with the Equinox capable of towing up to 2000kg. If you’re seeking a newcomer with a blend of affordability, space, and power, the Holden Equinox is worth considering as an alternative to the BMW X2.
7. Infiniti QX30: The Crossover Competitor
The Infiniti QX30, with a starting price of $30,150, is a notable player in the compact SUV segment and offers a compelling alternative to the BMW X2.
This vehicle shares its underpinnings with the Mercedes A-Class but is classified as a crossover. It competes with cars like the BMW X2, Mercedes GLA, and Audi Q3.
The QX30 features distinct differences from the standard Q30, including a higher ride height, additional body cladding on the front, bumpers, and wheel arches, and chrome roof rails for enhanced aesthetics.
Under the hood, you’ll find a 168bhp 2.2-liter diesel engine paired with four-wheel drive and an automatic gearbox.
While its towing capacity of up to 1800kg falls slightly short of the X2’s 2000kg, the QX30 offers a comfortable and stylish alternative in the compact SUV segment.
8. Jeep Grand Cherokee: Trail-Ready Performance
The Jeep Grand Cherokee, starting at $33,995, is a midsize SUV that’s built for adventure. With trail-ready capabilities, it can tackle off-road terrain that most of its rivals can only dream of.
What sets it apart is its impressive towing capacity of 4500 pounds, making it a versatile choice for those who need to haul heavy loads.
Under the hood, the Cherokee offers two engine options: a 270-hp 3.2-liter V-6 and a torque-rich turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Both engines come with all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission.
As a Jeep, the Cherokee delivers a robust and stable driving experience, with excellent handling and a smooth ride.
It absorbs impacts without feeling floaty on the highway, providing a confident driving experience.
9. Kia Sportage: Style and Performance
Kia’s Sportage, starting at $24,090, is a popular choice in the compact SUV segment, offering style, performance, and value.
The new-generation Sportage features striking looks and impressive improvements in comfort, materials, and interior design, making it a suitable alternative to the BMW X2.
The Sportage’s 226-bhp full hybrid engine delivers a brisk 0-60 time of 7.7 seconds, making it one of the quickest Sportage models available. It combines speed with acceleration, ensuring an engaging driving experience.
For those with towing needs, the Sportage offers a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds when equipped with the Kia Sportage towing package.
10. Lexus NX: A Size Above with Style
The Lexus NX stands as a slightly larger option compared to the BMW X2, approximately 10 inches longer.
Despite its increased size, the NX maintains a sense of nimbleness and maneuverability, making it well-suited for urban environments.
One distinctive feature of the NX is its polarizing exterior styling, which elicits a range of opinions—some love it, while others remain less enthused.
Inside, the NX takes a more conventional approach, offering an attractive interior that complements its premium status. Two engine choices are available:
- A conventional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 235 hp.
- A hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, resulting in a total system output of 194 horsepower.
Thanks to its extended length compared to the X2, the Lexus NX provides ample room for passengers and cargo, making it a practical yet stylish alternative.
Related: Lexus NX vs Toyota Highlander
11. Mazda CX-3: Sporty and Compact
While Mazda has been transitioning away from its sporty image, the Mazda CX-3 remains one of the sportiest entries in the small crossover segment.
It embodies a spirited driving experience that’s more reminiscent of a small hatchback than a traditional crossover SUV, aligning it with the BMW X2 in terms of performance appeal.
Despite not carrying a luxury badge, the Mazda CX-3 boasts an interior that exudes a European luxury brand feel, albeit on a smaller scale.
Its powerplant consists of a 148-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Leveraging Skyactiv’s high-compression technology, the CX-3 offers impressive fuel economy.
While it may have less power compared to the X2, it also weighs significantly less, contributing to its agility and overall performance.
12. Mercedes GLA: The BMW X2’s Worthy Competitor
The Mercedes GLA, with a starting price of $36,400, emerges as one of the few cars targeting customers in direct competition with the hybrid vehicle cars similar to the BMW X2.
As a close rival to the X2, the GLA shares its roots with the Mercedes A-Class. The 2022 version adopts a more substantial appearance, resembling a proper midsize SUV compared to its predecessor’s pumped-up hatchback style.
Inside the GLA, you’ll encounter a stunning twin-screen interior loaded with impressive technology, reaffirming its premium status.
This versatile model offers several variants, including the standard GLA, a plug-in hybrid option, and a high-performance AMG version.
While the X2 leans toward sportiness, the GLA strikes a balance between chunky styling and coupe-like aesthetics.
The 2022 GLA is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, delivering a capable 221 horsepower.
Instantly recognizable as a Mercedes, the GLA positions itself between the Mercedes GLC and A-Class, offering a more conservative design compared to some competitors.
13. Mini Countryman: Compact and Charismatic
The Mini Countryman, starting at $29,100, stands as the largest Mini model ever produced, offering a spacious and roomy five-seater interior.
This model presents a richly tailored interior and ample cargo space, making it a practical choice for those who need versatility without sacrificing style.
Despite its growth in size, the Countryman maintains the charm and charisma that Mini is renowned for.
Under the hood, it’s powered by a 1.5-liter TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder direct-injection engine with double VANOS, producing 134 hp at 4500 rpm.
This small yet potent engine enables the Countryman to accelerate from 0-60 MPH in just 9.3 seconds, demonstrating impressive performance for its class.
Remarkably, the Mini Countryman achieves impressive fuel efficiency, with up to 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. This combination of style, performance, and efficiency makes it a strong competitor to the BMW X2.
14. Range Rover Evoque: Luxury in a Compact Package
With a base price of $46,400, the Range Rover Evoque represents a luxury subcompact SUV that is worth considering as an alternative to the BMW X2.
This model boasts a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 178 bhp, allowing it to sprint from 0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds.
The Evoque has enjoyed considerable success in the midsize SUV range, thanks to its blend of style and luxury.
It comes equipped with a nine-speed automatic gearbox, prioritizing comfort over high-performance acceleration.
However, it’s worth noting that the Evoque still offers a competitive 0-60 mph time of 8.5 seconds, just 1.3 seconds slower than the X2.
With a fully equipped version delivering 296 horsepower, 295 lb-ft of torque, and a towing capacity of 3,968 pounds, the Evoque combines luxury with practicality, making it a strong contender in its class.
15. Volvo XC40: Redefining Crossover Design
The Volvo XC40 starting price of $35,395, stands out in the crowded crossover market with its unique and innovative design.
While it’s not typically classified as a luxury vehicle, it offers several compelling similarities to the BMW X2.
One notable feature is the base engine, a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, that delivers 248 hp, providing the XC40 with more acceleration compared to the BMW X2.
Volvo’s emphasis on safety is well-known, and the XC40 continues this tradition while offering a fun-to-drive experience.
It boasts an interior with intriguing options like eco-friendly cloth seating and a sizable center-mounted infotainment touchscreen.
Related: Volvo XC40 vs Toyota RAV4
Is the BMW X2 a safe car?
Yes, the BMW X2 is considered a safe car. It received a five-star crash safety rating from Euro NCAP, an independent safety assessment organization.
Both the X2 and its predecessor, the BMW X1, scored well in crash tests, with high ratings for adult occupant protection and child safety.
Does the BMW X2 have blind spot detection?
Blind spot detection is not standard on the pre-owned BMW X2. However, you have the option to upgrade to a full Active Driving Assistant system, which includes Active Blind Spot Detection among other advanced safety features.
Is the BMW X2 good in snow?
Yes, the BMW X2 performs well in snowy conditions, especially when equipped with snow tires. Its weight distribution, with more weight over the front wheels, helps with traction and initial acceleration in snowy or slippery conditions.
Additionally, the X2’s rear-wheel drive system can engage the rear wheels when slip is detected, providing added stability.
Does the BMW X2 require premium gas?
Yes, the BMW X2 is designed to run on premium gasoline. Premium gasoline typically has a higher octane rating, which is better suited for high-compression engines like those found in BMW models.
While regular gasoline has an octane rating of 87, premium gasoline can have an octane rating of up to 92, providing smoother and more efficient engine performance.
What is the difference between X2 and X5?
The BMW X2 and X5 are both SUVs, but they differ in terms of size, engine power, and fuel efficiency.
The X2 is smaller and comes with a base engine that produces 228 horsepower. It has an average fuel efficiency of 27 miles per gallon and a highway range of 515 miles.
In contrast, the X5 is larger and has a more powerful base engine, producing 335 horsepower. These differences make the X5 more suitable for those seeking a larger and more powerful SUV.
Final Thoughts: BMW X2 Competitors
In conclusion, when searching for alternatives and competitors to the BMW X2, there is a diverse range of options to consider.
Each of these alternatives offers its unique blend of features and characteristics, catering to various preferences and needs.
Whether you prioritize style, performance, safety, or fuel efficiency, you’ll find a vehicle that aligns with your priorities.
From the Alfa Romeo Stelvio with European flair and performance to the luxurious Range Rover Evoque and the innovative Volvo XC40, there are alternatives that offer compelling choices in the compact SUV segment.
These vehicles not only compete but often excel in various aspects, showcasing that there is no shortage of options for those seeking cars similar to BMW X2.
So, as you embark on your journey to find the perfect vehicle, keep in mind that while the BMW X2 shines brightly in its class, these alternatives provide a rich tapestry of options worth exploring.
